We departed Te Anau with the goal of exploring some of the backroads through the Catlins region. While most of the main roads are sealed, access to certain points of interest took us on gravel roads. We left the main highway near Lumsden toward Winton, from there we relied on a mix of intuition and Google Maps to guide us across the countryside to Owaka.
Traveling the backroads turned the journey into more than just a route to get from point A to point B, it became a scenic drive through charming small towns, expansive farmland, and gently rolling hills. Though we didn’t have time to venture further south along the Southern Scenic Route, we appreciated the slower pace and the experience on some of the roads less traveled.
Upon reaching Owaka, we stopped by the Catlins Museum and Information Centre. It houses a gallery, library, gift shop, and restrooms, all under one roof. We spent a while chatting with some of the locals and learning more about the region’s history. Just around the corner, we stumbled upon what remains of a quirky local art installation called Teapot Land that features hundreds of teapots.
From there it was off to Nugget Point Lighthouse.
Catlins Drive To Nugget Point
Nugget Point Lighthouse
Perched on a rugged peninsula in the Catlins region of Otago, Nugget Point Lighthouse offers one of the most spectacular coastal vistas in New Zealand. The lighthouse was built in 1870 to guide ships past the dangerous “nuggets.” Those small rocky outcrops named by Captain James Cook because they resembled pieces of gold.
A small car park is available at the end of The Nuggets road. From there, reaching the lighthouse is an easy 20-minute walk along a well-maintained track that winds along a narrow peninsula. The path hugs the cliffs, providing incredible panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way you’ll find several benches providing a chance to sit and soak in the views. While it’s an easy hike it can be quite windy so dress accordingly.
If you’re looking for one of the best viewpoints along Nugget Point Road, we recommend stopping at the Tirohanga Picnic Area. This spot offers a stunning vantage point, with sweeping views of the distant lighthouse, rugged peninsula, and surrounding coastline. There’s a small parking area suitable for one or two vehicles, along with a couple of picnic tables — perfect for a scenic break.
Nugget Point
Nearby Things to Do
Just down the road from the lighthouse you’ll find Roaring Bay Penguin Hide where you may be able to observe the rare yellow-eyed penguins (Hoiho). The best time for viewing is at sunrise or late afternoon when the penguins return from the sea to their nests along the shore.
One of the most photographed waterfalls in the Catlins is Purakaunui Falls which is a short drive inland. The walk takes you through native forest to a multi-tiered cascade.
Dunedin
After visiting Nugget Point on the Catlins Coast, the drive to Dunedin takes approximately two and a half to three hours, depending on stops and road conditions. The scenery transitions from remote coastal landscapes to rolling farmland and more developed areas as you head north through Balclutha and along State Highway 1.
Dunedin is a city on the southeast coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It is known for its Scottish heritage, historic architecture, and as the home of the University of Otago. Upon arriving you’ll certainly notice the change from rural to a bustling urban environment. Dunedin serves as a convenient base for further exploration of the Otago Peninsula and its coastal attractions.
Dunedin highlights include visiting the Dunedin Railway Station. Often called the most photographed building in New Zealand, this Flemish Renaissance-style station is a masterpiece of Edwardian architecture.
The Octagon: The heart of the city’s café and bar scene. Surrounded by restaurants, galleries, and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, it’s a great place to grab a drink or just people-watch.
St. Paul’s Cathedral was originally constructed between 1862 and 1863 it’s located in the heart of the city in the Octagon. St. It showcases Gothic Revival architecture with notable features being its vaulted stone ceiling and stained glass windows. It serves as the cathedral of the Anglican Diocese of Dunedin,
Nearby you’ll find The First Church of Otago with it’s distinctive spire of over 600 feet and gabled windows. It was completed in 1873 making it one of the oldest churches in the country.
Dunedin
Take a walk through New Zealand’s oldest university, The University of Otago, known for its iconic clocktower and ivy covered buildings.
Dunedin Botanic Garden is the oldest botanical garden in New Zealand is just a short walk from the university. It features themed gardens, and aviary and a number of easy walking trails.
The Otago Peninsula, extends 20 kilometers from Dunedin’s city center. It’s where you can experience views of rare species like yellow-eyed penguin (hoiho) and sea lions at Sandfly Bay and Allans Beach. The Peninsula is also home to the world’s only mainland colony of Northern Royal Albatrosses at Taiaroa Head where they can be observed in their natural habitat.
Baldwin Street – The World’s Steepest Street:
An icon of Dunedin and a quirky must-see. You don’t need to walk all the way to the top as many do, even a look from the base gives you an idea of how steep the street is. You can check the specifications at Guiness World Records.
For Dining out we can recommend Chopsticks 101, The Good Oil Cafe and Lonestar Dunedin.
We stayed at Bluestone on George with a room on the third floor that included a small balcony. The location was very walkable to nearby restaurants and the Octagon though walking up from the street to the hotel entrance might be a little steep for some. There is convenient on-site parking. Our room was impeccably clean and comfortable. Location is convenient to visiting nearby sites with reasonable drives to Moeraki, The Royal Albatross Centre, etc. or a nice days outing to Nugget Point Lighthouse.
Bluestone On George
Port Chalmers & Doctors Point:
Port Chalmers is a small harbor town located just 15 minutes from Dunedin. It’s an excellent destination for light adventure and photography. Here are a couple of highlights we explored.
The Lady Thorn Rhododendron Dell is a lush garden that was originally a bluestone quarry. It’s now filled with rhododendrons, flowering trees and a variety of spring bulbs. It’s named after the late Lady Thorn, a former Mayoress of Port Chalmers. It’s located on Church Street above Iona Church
Winding, peaceful trails lead visitors through the landscape, culminating in a scenic lookout with sweeping views of Otago Harbour. A small parking area is located just outside the gated entrance. Entry is free, though donations are welcomed. We visited in late January—just past the peak blooming season, which typically runs from October to December.
Not far from the Lady Thorn Dell is Centenary Lookout located on Blueskin Road. Situated just above Port Chalmers it offers panoramic views of the Otago Harbour. A large iron anchor known as the Nineteen Fathom Foul, which was a hazard to fishermen before being salvaged in 1978. It now serves as a maritime artifact on display at the lookout. Directly across from the anchor is a monument commemorating the first shipment of frozen meat from New Zealand in 1882, a milestone in the country’s export history.
From Centenary Lookout, we took the scenic route to Doctor’s Point via Blueskin Road, which winds over the hills and past the Orokonui Ecosanctuary. This route rewarded us with beautiful views of the harbor and surrounding countryside.
Doctor’s Point features a sandy beach framed by dramatic cliffs and sea caves that are best explored at low tide. From the car park, a leisurely stroll along the shore leads to the striking rock formations known as Taoka’s Arches. We continued along the beach until an onslaught of overly friendly sand flies convinced us it was time to retreat to the safety of our car.
After our visit we stopped by the Harvey Street Merchant in Waitati for some refreshing ice cream!
Exploring Port Chalmers & Doctors Point
Moeraki Boulders
Located about an hour north of Dunedin lies the town of Moeraki. Just outside the town you’ll find the Moeraki Boulders, huge spherical formations of sedimentary rock found along Koekohe Beach. The boulders range from approximately 1.5 to over 7 feet in diameter and can weigh several tons.
There is plenty of parking at the car park with a nearby café, gift shop, and public toilets. The boulders are accessible via a short walk down and along the beach.
You can grab a bite to eat at the on-site café or stop in the village of Moeraki. Although the renowned Fleur’s Place is now closed, other local dining options are available to enjoy fresh seafood and other local cuisine.
Moeraki Boulders
After exploring the Moeraki Boulders, we continued our journey up the coast toward Christchurch. Along the way, we stopped for brunch at a charming little café that we happily recommend — Vanessa’s Cottage Cafe.
Our route included a few planned and spontaneous stops, one of which brought us to the town of Waimate to explore Victoria Park. This green space features beautifully kept gardens and, to our surprise, a velodrome — the site of the annual Caledonian Games each January. The park also has animal enclosures, where we spotted wallabies and wandering peacocks.
Apparently Waimate is the only place in New Zealand where wallabies live in the wild. Though considered a pest, they’re allowed to roam freely in the region since the surrounding rivers naturally contain their spread.
Victoria Park
As we were leaving Waimate we passed by a fruit farm on Highway 1 advertising fresh strawberries. Needless to say we immediately turned back to check it out, after all this was the dead of winter back in the States and strawberry season was still months away. We stopped in Butler’s Berries and had a great time chatting with the owners before treating ourselves to their signature New Zealand strawberry ice cream. A Creamy treat blended with freshly picked strawberries offering a burst of natural sweetness.
The café offers a range of berry inspired treats, along with homemade jams and preserves, all made from fruit grown right on the farm. If you’re visiting during berry season you’ll have an opportunity to pick your own.
If you find yourself traveling through South Canterbury, a stop at Butler’s Berries is a sweet and memorable experience not to be missed.
Timaru
Afterward we headed for an overnight stay in the town of Timaru. From mid November to early February you have a chance to see the world’s smallest penguins—Little Blue Penguins—returning to shore at the southern end of Caroline Bay near Marine Parade. They’re said to arrive around 9:30 p.m. during the peak of summer.
We spent the night at the Bay Viaduct Motor Lodge, conveniently located about a 15–20 minute walk through a park to the beach (there’s also parking near the beach available). That evening, however, the penguins were a bit elusive and left a sizable crowd waiting in vain for their arrival.
If you’re looking for more of a guaranteed viewing you can visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, just a short drive from both Timaru and Dunedin, where tours are offered to see the world’s smallest penguins in their natural habitat.
Our Journey Draws To A Close
As our South Island journey drew to a close, the drive from Timaru to Christchurch gave us a quiet moment to reflect on the people, landscapes, wildlife, and experiences that shaped our time here. These final days in Christchurch offered a gentle return to urban life, where we could enjoy one last taste of Kiwi hospitality before heading back to the States. As we packed our bags—hearts full and minds buzzing with memories—we were reminded that we had only begun to explore the depth and beauty of this incredible country. We’re already looking forward to the day we return.
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